‘Ghost the Musical’ is haunting must-see tale
GUTHRIE — The love story is thrilling, and the thriller story is chilling as The Pollard Theatre is presenting “Ghost the Musical” through Saturday.
Screenwriter Bruce Joel Rubin adapted the musical from the movie “Ghost” that he wrote more than a quarter century ago. Caught between life and death after his demise, Sam Wheat, now a ghost, must solve his own murder in order to save the woman he loves, Molly Jensen, from the same fate. He enlists the help of a quack medium, Oda Mae Brown.
Directed by W. Jerome Stevenson and Jared Blount, this production has the advantage of diverse talents, as the two directors have such complementary skills. Stevenson is also the designer of scenes and lighting, while Blount is the designer of sound and video, creating a beautiful and eerie environment that allows for smoothly creative special effects. Musical Director Todd Malicoate leads an excellent band to provide a nice accompaniment to the vocals, but also to create an ominously powerful and haunting mood.
The cast of “Ghost the Musical” is impressive. Emily Pace is Molly Jensen, and her vibrancy and emotional range is ideal for the lead female character. Pace has an exceptionally beautiful and expressive voice captivating her audience. Seth Paden is Sam Wheat; his happy-go-lucky exterior belies the serious man of determination and commitment underneath that the audience comes to know as he struggles to communicate with the living. The two lovers have a powerful connection with each other, one that apparently transcends death, but also one that definitely enchants the audience.
Charlie Monnot is Carl Bruner, friend and colleague to Sam, although there’s a duality beneath his nonchalant sidekick exterior. De’Vin Lewis is an amazingly talented singer and actress, and her character of Oda Mae Brown is absolutely delightful. As a medium, she is a charlatan without scruples, but her humanity is heart-of-gold admirable. Lewis has an outstanding voice; it soars throughout the theater. And in another aspect of her role entirely, she manages to display a wonderful comedic sense that is hilariously funny.
Supporting actors include Stevenson, who is fantastically fatalistic and frightening as the Subway Ghost. Willie Lopez is the triggerman without a conscience, and Dakota Muckelrath portrays his vile villainy with vigorous vitality. Louise is brought to life by the talented Mariah Warren, and Clara is created wonderfully by Kara Pharoah, who makes her Pollard debut. Megan Montgomery and Tiffany Tuggle are exciting additions to the cast that impress the audience with memorable moments. Maurice Quintel and Carl Lance also are outstanding in exceptional performances. An excellent cast executes individual roles in perfect harmony — whether in dramatic actors’ voice or the captivating, artistic presentation of the musical score.